Debating Society: Welfare Officer

As someone who is passionate about mental well-being and has a lot of experience, I want to create a positive environment where we can all flourish whilst coming together as a community!

As a Mental Health England First Aid champion, I have earned the qualifications necessary to support individuals when they struggle mentally. These qualifications have allowed me to advocate for better mental health provisions and policies locally and nationally. 

For example, I spent two years as a mental health advisor for a non-profit -North-Focus North West- meeting with the country's leading psychiatrists, NHS managers and leaders of young people's mental health services such as CAMHS. Thanks to my work in the mental health sector I was invited to speak at the Conservative Party Conference about what governments need to do in order to better support wellbeing amongst the youth. I was further given the platform to address ministers in the House of Commons on how they have failed to support mental health-related issues in schools.

As someone with a vested interest in supporting people to overcome tough situations,  I believe I have the skill and passion necessary to ensure we all make the most out of our time at UCL and build a sense of family within Debate Society!

Hi everyone! This is Archer running for your Debate Soc welfare and equity officer this upcoming year. 

I have a few reasons why I believe I can be the best welfare officer to represent you all, but it all comes down to making debate as safe and welcoming an environment as possible for everyone. Debate Soc is such a great community, and with how passionate everyone is I think it’s important to keep in mind respectfulness: whether it be in spars, competitions or socials. I think this is best achieved through communication, something I pride myself in. 

Firstly, the right kind of equity policies and briefings inform us all on how to be sensitive when it comes to contentious topics. I think a reminder of certain aspects of equity at the start of a weekly session once in a while would be very beneficial to this end.

Secondly, I believe it’s very important you feel comfortable coming to me with your problems. This isn't just in debates! I am very friendly and open to listening to your concerns, whether you want to approach to me at sessions, or contact me through Whatsapp or email. I will make sure firstly that you feel safe and heard, and then talk to you about how best to address your issue.

Finally, when problems do arise I think it’s key to adress things fairly. We are a well-meaning group of people, and everyone deserves a chance to have their side of the story heard. That’s why when problems do occur, I will make sure all involved have a chance to explain themselves.